Devotion: Romans 5:20

Romans 5:20 The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more.

When you first read this verse you might find yourself wondering what Paul meant when he said the law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. It seems strange to have a verse saying trespasses would increase. Normally we would want to see them decrease because we are living a holy life. So what did he mean?

The Law was given in the Old Testament and all of the Israelites, and any foreigners living amongst them, sought to do what was required. They faithfully made sacrifices over and over as needed to atone for their sins. But the Law was nearly impossible to fulfill since we are all sinful creatures (Romans 3:23). The Law didn’t get rid of sin. Instead, it exposed sin and humanity’s inability to keep it.

Thus, we have our first sentence explained. Sin and trespass had to increase to show the world the true glory of God. And we see in the next sentence that where sin increased, grace increased all the more.

In response to our sin, God’s grace increased all the more. His grace abounded. Sin entered the world through Adam, but it was nailed to the cross when Jesus was sacrificed. He became the ultimate sacrifice for atonement that the Israelites had been unable to achieve with their sacrifices. We are covered by grace, saved through faith in Him and what He did in our place.

We need to remember that grace is not something we can take advantage of. It does not give us permission to continue to sin. When we repent we turn from sin to something better, righteousness.

Today’s verse tells us that where sin increases more and more, so does His grace. His grace is overflowing and we are filled with it, covered over, as we experience His goodness and mercy. Turn from sin today and let His grace wash them away.

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